Polokwane – The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, has arrested 11 individuals and four companies in connection with an alleged multi-million rand fraud and theft scheme linked to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
According to the South African Police Service, the suspects were arrested on Monday, 20 April 2026, by the Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit and appeared before the Lephalale Magistrate Court in Polokwane on Tuesday, 21 April 2026.
The accused face charges of fraud and theft.
Those arrested include Sydwell Khulu Molala (47), Mokgere Anna Mamabolo (55), Maxwell Claudius Chinyemba (42), Matlaakhudu Cate Mogano (37), Malefetsana Johannes Mogano (31), Mokgopo Elias Mogano (42), Mmalegasa Piccah Semenya (30), Matome Aaron Maake (29), Salome Mmamotshaba Kganyago (52), Mmakgomo Lucy Semenya (49), and Moketla Nelson Mamabolo (27), along with four companies.
It is alleged that in 2017, Sydwell Molala, then an accounting clerk at Lephalale TVET College, worked with a senior state accountant and a financial clerk to defraud NSFAS by diverting funds intended for student bursaries for personal gain.
Investigators further allege that bank accounts were opened in the names of relatives to conceal the proceeds, while some accused also registered companies used to move and launder the funds.
All accused are currently out on bail and are expected to appear before the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Thursday, 7 May 2026.
Limpopo Hawks provincial head Gopez Govender said the unit remains committed to combating corruption, particularly crimes involving public funds intended for education.
“The Hawks remain committed to fighting corruption and protecting public funds, especially money meant to support students and education,” Govender said.
Police have urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward.
Picture: X/@myNSFAS
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
